CHARGERS: What to expect from tonight's game

The Chargers play their preseason finale Thursday night in San Francisco, on the eve of the final NFL cut. This game will feature starters for a few series and several fighting for the few open roster spots.

That can incite inspired play or mistakes of desperation as young players cling to their NFL dreams. Here are a few things (and players) to keep an eye on while you're watching:

The running game

The Chargers are averaging a paltry 2.4 yards per carry on the ground, which ranks dead last in the NFL. Ills can't me cured in one game, but encouraging signs would be preferred by the coaching staff. Also, don't read too much into stats you see at this point. It's the regular season that matters, but some positive momentum couldn't hurt heading into the Sept. 10 opener at Oakland.

The cornerback conundrum

The Chargers have several injured corners not playing tonight with uncertain status, meaning they might keep a young player or go after a veteran in free agency. Players like DeAndre Presley and Arthur Hobbs don't want the Chargers to look outside the organization, and a big game just might sway fortune in their direction.

Second-year bubble players

Linebackers Bront Bird and Darryl Gamble are firmly on the bubble, and might not make this team. Both look improved, especially Bird on the inside, and good defense combined with strong play in the kicking might help them make this roster or another one.

Young receivers

The Chargers need a fifth receiver when the injured Vincent Brown eventually goes on IR as a "designated to return" player. Robert Meachem, Malcom Floyd, Eddie Royal and Micheal Spurlock have roster spots basically locked up. The fifth could be any one of several receivers. Richard Goodman holds an advantage as a kickoff returner, but Mike Willie is still on the team. He's played great at times, but is woefully inconsistent.

Improved O-line play

Young offensive linemen Mike Harris and David Molk need to play better than they did last week, when Minnesota routinely beat them. Uncertainty remains with the injury status of Jared Gaither (back) and Nick Hardwick (concusccion) heading into the Raiders game, when the fill-ins may be counted on. Whether that comes in Week 1 or not, they will likely be looked to at some point during the season. Harris and Molk need to be ready.